Precautions to Take Against Cancer
- Gabriela Bertran
- May 23, 2023
- 3 min read
Every year, over five million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States. To put this into perspective, the United States population is estimated to be about 382.2 million. In addition to the alarming rate of skin cancer diagnoses per year, there are also an estimated 235,000 cases of lung cancer being diagnosed in the United States. Although the diagnosis of some of these cases are inevitable, there are some precautions that can be taken to reduce the risk of contracting these types of cancers.
The most common type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma, which is most commonly found in people with lighter skin tones, who tend to be more susceptible to sun damage caused by UV rays- other common forms of skin cancer are Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Melanoma. This risk can be lessened by taking precautions to minimize exposure to harmful UV rays, such as applying sunblock anytime you step outside. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying sun block with an SPF of 30 or higher to prevent both sunburns, and the possible development of any type of skin cancer.
In addition to preventing the development of skin cancer by shielding yourself from UV rays and properly applying sunblock, you can perform “self checks” for any moles or new growths that you did not previously have. New or out of place moles may be melanoma, and should be checked by a doctor as soon as possible to be removed if cancerous. The American Cancer Society recommends that these “self checks” be performed at least once a month. Moles aren’t the only tell-tale signs of skin cancer, and the American Cancer Society implores that you use the “ABCDE” rule to determine whether a growth or blemish may be cancerous. This rule is an acronym that states what you should be checking for on any moles or birthmarks: asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving. Any new scars, discolored spots, or itching should be discussed with your doctor.
Another common form of cancer that can be prevented is lung cancer. There are many different causes of lung cancer, and the American Cancer Society estimates that smoking tobacco is the cause of 80% of all lung cancer cases. This makes it simple- an easy way to prevent the development of lung cancer is to avoid smoking cigarettes. In 2019, the CDC estimated that only 14% of Americans over age 18 still smoke traditional cigarettes. This low number is a positive step towards lowering lung cancer rates in the United States. Although traditional cigarettes are quickly losing popularity now that their risks have been further proven to the public, a new threat exists- e-cigarettes and vapes.
Quickly gaining popularity, vape and e-cigarette devices are commonly- and mistakenly- thought of as “safe” alternatives to traditional cigarettes. These are much more popular with teenagers and young adults, with 20% of all highschoolers vaping according to a federal study in 2018. Because these devices are so new, their risks are not as known or evident as with traditional cigarettes. According to Johns Hopkins University’s medical department, the chemicals such as formaldehyde found in vapes may cause certain types of cancer, along with irreparable damage to your lungs. All of this evidence points to an obvious conclusion: to lower your risk of developing any long term lung damage or lung cancer, abstain from using any vape or e-cigarette device.
Although some cancers have genetic causes, it is important to take any steps you can against the development of other cancers. Remember to always apply sunblock, and to be alert and aware of any suspicious moles, along with staying away from cigarettes and vapes. Steps such as these can curb the spread of cancers in your body.
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